1998 BMW 316 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1986 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 116 L |
